Melvin Cairns McGillivray
1917 – 2011
Melvin McGillivray passed away at the Moose Jaw Union Hospital on October 23, 2011. Mel was born May 14, 1917 in the Cottonwood District, near Pense, SK and received most of his schooling in Moose Jaw. During his early years he worked in Moose Jaw and later farmed near Stelcam and Belbeck. He served with the RCAF during World War II. On June 30, 1940, Mel married his love, Lillian. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Lillian; daughter Peggy (Art) Quinney of Courtenay, BC and granddaughters Tricia of Edmonton, and Marla (John) of Chicago; daughter Roberta (Jim) Passmore of Moose Jaw and grandchildren Carla (Lee) of Marquis, Crystal (Lanny) of Moose Jaw and Chad (Tabatha) of Saskatoon; step-grandchildren Michelle of Campbell River, BC and Jamie (Trisha) of Moose Jaw; and eight great grandchildren and five step-great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.He was predeceased by his parents, Hector and Phoebe McGillivray, sisters Catherine Durrant, Margaret Symes and Florence Roney, and brothers Gordon, Scottie, and Donald McGillivray. In retirement Mel became an avid golfer, lawn bowler, and curler and continued his interest in other sport and community activities. He and Lillian enjoyed camping and travelling with family and friends. Mel took particular pride in his family and their accomplishments. He enjoyed family gatherings and the energy of those great grandchildren. He will be remembered for his gentle manner, his sense of humour, his love of sports, his comb in his pocket, his devotion to Lillian and his affection for his family.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Moose Jaw Extendicare and the Union Hospital Medicine Ward for care provided for Melvin and the support to our family. A Service of Remembrance will be held on Friday, October 28, 2011 at 3:00 pm at WJ Jones and Son Funeral Chapel. Della Ferguson will officiate. Flowers are gratefully declined. In living memory of Melvin, a tree will be planted in Besant Park by W. J. Jones & Son Funeral Home. Please sign the memorial register book at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries).
Dayna Smith-Short – Funeral Director